Monday, October 19, 2009

Book Review and Giveaway: "Angels" by Chuck Fischer

Whether you consider angels to be divine messengers, spiritual guides, or the stuff of legend, you will find something to marvel at in Chuck Fischer's beautifully illustrated Angels: A Pop-Up Book. Fischer's original art, inspired by classic images from art history, is crafted into astoundingly intricate three-dimensional pop-ups with fold-outs and moveable parts. Angels brings to life the most captivating stories of these celestial beings, from the angels of the zodiac to Biblical angels to angels in the arts and popular culture. Much like its subject, Angels: A Pop-Up Book inspires awe and wonder and is a unique gift book for all ages.

I had previously read/admired Fisher's previous book Genesis and was completely in awe of it. Therefore when I opened up this book, I was expecting nothing less. I was not disappointed. This book is absolutely gorgeous and leaves you saying "wow!". The book is separated into three categories: Angels as Messengers, The Hierarchy of Angels and Secular Angels. Even though the pop ups are the main draw of the book, the text that accompanies isn't just filler material. There's history and culture to learn about and it really goes in depth about the study of angels. It's extremely informative and well worth the read. Also included are paintings of classical angels throughout the years from all over the world.

The main draw of the book of course is the pop ups and they are a sight to behold. This book basically brings art to life in full color 3-D images. The scene where the Virgin Mary is confronted by the angel Gabriel leaps off the page in a Renaissance style while the Origins of Angels page shows angels from the Eastern point of view. The pop ups are all extremely jaw dropping but my personal favorite is probably the one of Daniel in the Lion's Den. This one is huge as it overextends the covers and it's just absolutely beautiful. Also this is one of my favorite Bible stories so to see it in this format is just totally awesome.

Please note though, that while this book is a pop up book, it is NOT necessarily for kids. Don't think you can pass this off to a 5 year old and have them spend an afternoon playing with it. The pop ups are MUCH more intricate that that of a pop up book aimed at kids and the text is aimed at an adult audience. This book is good for a family to own but I personally would recommend looking at WITH your kids and not just hand it to them (unless they are huge angel fans).

This book is a must for fans of angels and those of classical works of art. Chuck Fischer has made me a fan of his works and now I'm looking forward to future releases from him. These books would make great gifts for the holiday season.

I'm giving away 1 brand new copy of today's book! Leave a comment with your email address so I can contact you if you win. Please remember that just because it is pop up book does NOT mean it's for children! If you say that you are entering just so you can give this to your kid, then you did not read my review and will be disqualified. I'll pick a name and announce the winner on Sunday October 26. Open to US and Canada entries. Good luck!

Wow! I've always been curious and mesmerized by angels, and I also enjoy reading accounts of people's encounters with angels. This book sounds like something I'd like to read and look at. Your comment about Daniel in the Lion's Den makes me want to go out and buy this book! Please enter me for the drawing:cdnovelist (at) aol (dot) com

I love books like this, my mom has a 12 days of Christmas pop-up that sounds a lot like this, I wonder if it's the same guy? I always cringe when my kids want to look at it (Ok, let's sit here together and be careful with it :-)

This book sounds amazing. I have not seen an adult pop-up before. I would love to be entered in the drawing. Thanks so much for the opportunity.Sweet blessings to you* Deborah Leathersdleathers3(at)yahoo(dot)com